Related Coverage

FRANKLIN, Ohio (WDTN) – A Franklin basketball star is one of 15 finalists to represent the United States in the 2014 Junior Olympics.

Luke Kennard is vying for a spot on the 2014 Basketball Men’s U18 National Team roster.

After three days of training sessions in Colorado Springs, Colorado, the current roster was released Thursday cutting the field from 24 to 15.

“I thought the group all-together was really, really great. Now that we’ve narrowed it down to 15 guys, we’ll get a chance to practice with those guys. As I’ve said, it’s not necessarily about having the 12 best players but having the 12 best guys that will make up the best team. I think with these 15 players there are a lot of options to choose from. This group is very talented and really good,” said Billy Donovan, USA U18 National Team head coach.

The finalists will continue their training June 12-19 when the field will be cut to 12.

Kennard is a recipient of the Ohio AP Mr. Basketball Award. He averaged 41 points for the Franklin High School team.